Security Police officers arrested a resident of Solveira on suspicion of having started a fire through the use of direct flame, most likely a lighter. The investigation determined that the fire was started deliberately.
The fire consumed an area of approximately six thousand square meters of herbaceous vegetation and shrubby bramble. The flames were quickly contained thanks to the prompt intervention of firefighters and an aerial unit.
Authorities stress that, had the fire reached larger proportions, it would have endangered the entire surrounding area, composed of chestnut and oak groves and other tree and shrub species, as well as several homes and agricultural warehouses.
The arrested individual will be brought before the competent judicial authority for initial judicial questioning and possible application of precautionary measures. The investigation continues under the direction of the Public Ministry of Montalegre, having been conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department of Vila Real, with the collaboration of the Working Group for the Reduction of Ignitions in the Northern Interior.
